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Chafing, scratchy liners, and bothersome waistbands make running a slog. Uncomfortable shorts can put a damper on your run, but the right pair can contribute to the often elusive runner's high.
Our favorite shorts are the Patagonia Strider Pro. At just 3.40 ounces, it is the lightest lined short we tested, yet its five-pocket system carries gels, a phone, and even a packable jacket without the need for a running vest. The DWR-treated shell sheds light rain and dries faster than anything else in our lineup, and bonded seams eliminate every potential chafe point.
For runners on a budget or new to the sport, we love the Baleaf Running Athletic Shorts. These three zippered pocket shorts keep a phone, keys, and gels locked down at a price that undercuts most competitors by a wide margin, and built-in UPF 50+ adds sun protection that several shorts costing two to three times as much cannot match.
We tested 10 of the most popular men's running shorts in a side-by-side comparison. Our running enthusiasts evaluated comfort and fit, moisture-wicking capabilities, pocket utility, and more. We've analyzed the small details, so you can find the right pair for the best run.
Best For: Long distance | Pockets: 4 stretch envelope + 1 back zipper with key loop
PROS
Pockets rival running belt
Ultralight & bonded seams
Sheds light rain & speeds drying
Odor control liner
CONS
Brief liner
Premium price
The Patagonia Strider Pro earned our top spot by doing more with less. At just 3.40 ounces, it is one of the lightest lined shorts we tested, yet its five-pocket system holds more than many shorts twice its weight. Four stretch envelope pockets lie flat when empty and expand to swallow gels, gloves, or even a lightweight jacket, while the back zipper pocket secures a phone with a built-in key loop. The DWR-treated recycled polyester shell sheds light rain and dries faster than most lined shorts in the group, and the bonded seams eliminate every potential chafe point. For runners who want to leave the vest at home on long efforts, few shorts in our lineup offer this level of on-body storage. Our tester noted, “Once I loaded up the envelope pockets for a long trail run, I forgot I was even carrying anything. That is the hallmark of a great pocket system.”
The Strider Pro is not without trade-offs. Its brief-style, crepe liner provides less thigh coverage than a boxer brief design, which may concern runners prone to inner-thigh chafing on longer runs. The external drawcord, while easy to adjust on the move, is a style preference that not everyone loves. And with a higher price, the investment is real. If you prefer a boxer brief liner, an internal drawcord, or something less expensive, the REI Swiftland Shorts is one of our favorites. If your runs regularly demand carrying nutrition, keys, and a phone without the bulk of a vest, the Strider Pro delivers in a way few shorts here can match.
Best For: Beginner | Pockets: 2 side zipper + 1 back zipper
PROS
Three zippered pockets
Pockets securely close
UPF 50
CONS
Waistband folds
Runs warmer
Basic mesh liner
The Baleaf Running Athletic Shorts prove that secure pocket storage does not have to come at a premium price. Three zipper pockets, two on the sides and one in back, keep a phone, keys, and gels locked down during every run. That kind of secure storage is something several shorts costing two to three times as much cannot match. The mesh brief liner and UPF 50+ protection round out a surprisingly capable package for runners just getting started or anyone who would rather spend their gear budget elsewhere without sacrificing pocket security.
The Baleaf does show its price point in a few areas. The elastic waistband is narrower than our top performers and tends to fold over on longer runs, particularly once sweat accumulates. The 100% polyester fabric is smooth enough but lacks the softness and breathability of the recycled blends found in higher-scoring options, and the mesh brief liner is adequate rather than impressive. Our tester observed, “For three zipper pockets at this price, the Baleaf is hard to beat. Just keep your runs under an hour and the waistband stays out of the way.” If you are new to running or want a reliable backup pair that keeps your essentials secure, the Baleaf earns its spot as a strong value.
Best For: Long distance | Pockets: 1 back zipper (phone) + 2 waistband stash + 1 key loop
PROS
Among the most breathable
Runner pocket layout
Wide waistband
Liner balances coverage/airflow
CONS
Small waistband stash pockets
Pricing feels high
The REI Swiftland Shorts are built around the O2Grid fabric, a recycled nylon and spandex blend that delivered some of the best breathability in the group. The out seam vents push even more air across the skin, and the wide SwiftFit waistband uses the same O2Grid material for moisture management right where sweat collects first. The pocket system is designed around a runner's actual carry needs: a back zipper holds a phone, two waistband stash pockets each hold a gel or small snack, and a key loop in the right stash pocket keeps keys from rattling. The boxer brief mesh liner provides solid coverage without trapping heat.
The Swiftland is a focused running short, and that focus comes with some limitations. The waistband stash pockets are small and suited only for gels or a card, not larger items. For larger items you might need the Patagonia Strider Pro. The nylon-dominant fabric has a slightly more structured hand feel than the silkiest polyester blends. And while the price is fair for the technology, it is higher than some might expect from a house brand. Our tester said, “On a hot afternoon, the Swiftland was the short I reached for every time. The fabric just moves air better than anything else.” For runners who train through summer heat or live in warm climates, the Swiftland's breathability advantage is real and meaningful.
The Vuori Kore Short is the short you grab when the day's plans might include a gym session, a grocery run, and a few easy miles on the road. Its 10% elastane fabric blend is among the softest we tested, with a four-way stretch that moves with every activity. The 7-inch inseam and classic-fit silhouette look at home in any setting, and the boxer brief liner provides all-day support without the look-at-me aesthetic of a dedicated running short. Available in both 5-inch and 7-inch inseams, with lined and unlined options, the Kore adapts to preferences as easily as it adapts to life's activities.
The Kore is not built to compete with dedicated running shorts on performance metrics. At 6.50 ounces it is among the heaviest shorts, and its fabric absorbs water rather than repelling it, making it one of the slowest to dry. The slash and back pockets are fine for a wallet and keys at the gym but lack the zipper closures runners need for secure carry at pace. The liner, while soft and comfortable for lower-intensity activity, tends to ride up during sustained running. The Patagonia Strider and Swiftland both are lighter, dry faster, and have more secure storage. Our tester put it simply: “The Kore is the shorts I wear the most hours per week, just not the most running miles. It is my go-to for everything except dedicated run days.” If you want one pair of shorts that does it all reasonably well rather than one thing perfectly, the Kore is the answer.
Best For: Versatility | Pockets: 2 hand + 1 key pocket + 1 thigh phone pocket on liner
PROS
Best 4-inch boxer brief stays put
Unique thigh phone pocket eliminates bounce
Comfortable flat-knit waistband
Perforated waist panels
CONS
More liner fabric = longer drying
Hand pockets not zippered
Heavier than basic Dash
The Brooks Dash 2-in-1 Shorts has one of the best liners in the group, and it is easy to understand why. The 4-inch boxer brief liner provides more coverage than most options, with a four-way stretch jersey that stays flush against the thighs through every stride. The standout feature is the thigh phone pocket built into the liner itself, holding a phone directly against the leg where bounce is virtually eliminated. The flat soft-knit waistband and perforated side panels carry over from the standard Brooks Dash, keeping airflow high and the ride comfortable across distances.
The Dash 2-in-1 does ask you to accept a few compromises for that liner quality. The additional fabric of the 4-inch boxer brief adds weight compared to the standard Dash, and it takes longer to dry after heavy perspiration or a rain-soaked run. The two external hand pockets are open-topped rather than zippered, which works for post-run convenience but is less secure during faster efforts. Our tester shared, “When I know a run is going to push past an hour, I trust the Dash 2-in-1 liner more than any other. The thigh phone pocket is genuinely clever, and my legs never chafe.” For runners who prioritize liner support, chafe prevention, and a secure phone carry above all else, the Dash 2-in-1 is our recommendation.
The Brooks Dash 2-in-1 Shorts are our favorite for boxer like liner shorts. Credit: Matthew Richardson
Product Comparison Table
The Patagonia Strider Pro on a dusty trail climb near Durango. Credit: Matthew Richardson
How We Tested
We tested running shorts from the roads and trails of southwestern Colorado to the elaborate network of gravel fire roads, dirt paths, and paved motorways of Oregon, all to help you find the pair that best serves you. We evaluated the comfort, fit, pockets, and performance of each pair.
Each pair of shorts was scored and rated across our three rating metrics:
Overall Comfort (50% of overall score weighting)
Breathability and Moisture Control (30% weighting)
Pockets (20% weighting)
We also considered how well they would fare in hiking, general athletics, and everyday errand adventures. Run testing occurs in concert with objective dry time testing and product measurements, as well as an evaluation and comparison with manufacturer specifications.
The Brooks Dash Shorts on rocky singletrack.
Why Trust GearLab
Matthew Richardson is a passionate runner and all-around mountain sport enthusiast based in Durango, Colorado. An interest in environmental biology and GIS (Geospatial Information Systems) first brought him to the San Juan Mountains for college, and in the years since, he has built a life dedicated to maximizing his time in the outdoors, with trail running at its center. As one of GearLab's running experts, Matthew has not only taken on a central role in evaluating running shorts over the years, but also leads our review of men's trail running shoes.
Our tester logging trail miles in the Janji AFO Middle near Durango. Credit: Matthew Richardson
Analysis and Test Results
We evaluated each pair of shorts for overall comfort, breathability, moisture control, and pocket utility. We outline how each pair of shorts performs below.
Worse Value
Better Value
What is the Best Value?
Value in running shorts is not just about the lowest price tag. It is about how much performance you get for what you spend. The Baleaf Running Athletic Shorts sit at the entry-level end of our lineup and deliver the best bang for the buck, with three zippered pockets, a functional mesh liner, and UPF 50+ protection at a cost that undercuts most competitors by a wide margin. For new runners or anyone building out a rotation on a budget, the Baleaf handles the essentials without asking much in return. The Brooks Dash 2-in-1 Shorts and REI Swiftland Shorts occupy the mid-range and offer strong returns for the higher investment: the Dash 2-in-1 pairs a top-scoring liner with a clever thigh phone pocket at a moderate price, while the Swiftland delivers the best breathability and a runner-specific pocket layout for a bit more. For runners who do not need premium pocket capacity, the standard Brooks Dash Shorts provide an excellent waistband and lightweight build at an accessible price point.
The Baleaf Running Shorts, our budget pick. Credit: Matthew Richardson
Overall Comfort
Nothing can sap the joy from a run faster than clothing that irritates your skin, restricts your movement, or otherwise distracts from your run.
A comfortable pair of shorts should be easy to put on, fit snugly, provide the intended support and coverage, allow for flexible movement, and be generally irritant-free. Poor designs show up as pinching or chafing, poor heat control, sagging, and shifting as you move, or even less mobility. Design flaws are more than a nuisance; they create discomfort and distraction.
The lightweight build of the Janji AFO Middle. Credit: Matthew Richardson
Design and Materials
High-quality shorts enhance mobility with designs that incorporate stretchy fabric blends. Lightweight, elasticized materials ensure that legs have a full range of motion. Another common design that ensures free range of motion is a side cut, or vertical slit, along the leg's sideline. This is sometimes cut into a single fabric panel to create the leg opening, or it is made from two or more panels overlaid, leaving a draped break between them. This targeted side opening helps the shorts move more easily with every stride.
The side notch on the Brooks Dash Shorts opens up the stride. Credit: Matthew Richardson
Comfort also depends on the material used and the construction style. In running shorts, very often sheer, synthetic fibers are favored for their lightweight, smooth finish and tendency to facilitate airflow. It is common to see a wide variety of different synthetic materials. This creative fine-tuning, in conjunction with considered stitching along the seams, can go a long way in increasing overall comfort.
The Patagonia Strider Pro, built with bonded seams throughout. Credit: Matthew Richardson
Rounded or flat seams do a great job of protecting the groin from uncomfortable irritation while in motion. Smart decisions in the cut can also play a role in how your shorts feel when put to their intended use. Longer inseams and shorts-style liners can cause breathability problems due to the greater amount of fabric used in their construction.
The perforated knit waistband on the Janji AFO Middle. Credit: Matthew Richardson
Waistband Comfort
Waistbands and their accompanying drawstrings are the primary tools for achieving a customized fit. They can come in a variety of widths, materials, and styles. Wider waistbands have stretchy, wide bands around the middle, akin to the style you might see on yoga pants. This thick band provides a snug, responsive fit around the waistline, maintaining a soft yet stable position in motion. Although not traditionally associated with running apparel, it has become an increasingly popular design choice.
The narrower elastic waistband on the Baleaf Running Shorts. Credit: Matthew Richardson
Some models have stuck with a more classic midsection design, utilizing a bunched drawstring elastic waistband to hold their position on the body. Reminiscent of high school gym shorts, this old-school design provides a snug fit, but its elasticized, bunched style can dig into the waist with extended movement and may become uncomfortable and distracting.
The key keeper inside the rear pocket of the Patagonia Trailfarer. Credit: Matthew Richardson
Waistbands are typically accompanied by a drawstring. Drawstrings can be placed inside the shorts or along the exterior of the waistband. They help dial in the final fit and may be pulled taut or left loose. We prefer exterior designs because they avoid potential chafing problems. Interior placements mean the knot sits right at the pelvis, where it can rub against the skin and cause an uncomfortable running experience once sweat collects, especially during long-distance efforts. Most of our top-scoring shorts had wide waistbands measuring 1.75 inches or more.
The flat perforated waistband of the Janji AFO Middle beside the thicker NorthYard waistband. Credit: Matthew Richardson
Best and Worst for Comfort
The Janji AFO Middle is the best for overall comfort, thanks to its updated perforated knit waistband that sits flat and breathes beautifully, an external drawcord that keeps bulk away from the skin, and bonded seams throughout. At 3.50 ounces, the AFO fabric has a barely-there quality that makes it easy to forget you are wearing anything at all. The Patagonia Strider Pro, Brooks Dash Shorts, Brooks Dash 2-in-1 Shorts, and REI Swiftland Shorts also rate highly for comfort. Each features a flat-lying waistband that stays put through long efforts, with the Swiftland's wide SwiftFit waistband earning particular praise for moisture management, and the Brooks models sharing a refined, flat, soft-knit design.
Nearer the bottom of the group, the NorthYard Workout Running Shorts trail for comfort. The waistband uses a thinner, flat drawstring that feels less refined, and at 6.20 ounces, the heavier fabric creates more pull during movement. The Baleaf Running Athletic Shorts also falls short of the leaders, with a basic elastic waistband that tends to fold over as sweat accumulates during longer runs.
Liner Fit
Running shorts fit depends heavily on the liner and the length and width of the leg openings. A built-in liner, when included, is a secondary tool to help you achieve optimal fit. At its best, a brief will provide the support required to maintain your stride over long distances without distractions. However, not all liners are effective, which can sometimes lead to uncomfortable situations.
Liners are generally made of mixed materials, usually a synthetic blend. Spandex is the most form-fitting, with nylon and polyester proving a little less stretchy. This means that liners with a high spandex content often provide much more support, hugging the body more closely, while something made of a fabric higher in nylon or polyester alone will sit more loosely. The extra stretch can be welcome for support, but it is important to remember that a fitted liner can also mean less breathability and a higher potential for moisture absorption, since that fabric sits against the skin. When there is less room for air to move freely, there will be less cross-fabric breeze and less moisture wicking.
The brief liner of the Patagonia Strider Pro.
Liner fit also depends on the seams, which should hold their place against the thigh without cutting into the skin. The liner's leg openings are also important, as they should provide enough space for the leg to pass through and enough elasticity, grip, and flexibility to remain locked in place and responsive during movement. Well-built brief liners paired with sidecuts (an opening from each leg's bottom hem up toward the side waist of the shorts) can make a great combination, ensuring support and coverage while expanding the leg's range of motion to achieve stride.
The brief liner seam on the Janji AFO Middle. Credit: Matthew Richardson
Our favorite liners were the Patagonia Strider Pro and the Brooks Dash 2-in-1 Shorts. The Strider Pro's crepe knit brief liner with Patagonia's “HeiQ Mint odor control” stays flush against the skin, wicks quickly, and eliminates chafe with its bonded construction. The Dash 2-in-1 takes a different approach with a 4-inch boxer brief liner that provides more thigh coverage than most in the lineup, and its four-way stretch jersey never rode up during our chafe-distance testing at 7 to 10 miles. The REI Swiftland Shorts and Janji AFO Middle also impressed, with the Swiftland's boxer brief mesh liner balancing coverage and airflow, and the Janji's brief liner pairing well with its ultralight bonded-seam construction.
The least impressive liner was the Baleaf Running Athletic Shorts. Its mesh brief is functional for the price but thin and basic compared to premium options. The Brooks Dash Shorts brief liner provides adequate support but minimal coverage and no phone-carry solution.
The boxer brief liner of the Brooks Dash 2-in-1 Shorts.
Briefs or 2-in-1?
Liners come in briefs and 2-in-1. Brief liners are our preferred choice for running, as they facilitate better breathability while providing support. The 2-in-1 style liner features a longer boxer-brief design. This design can increase comfort in lower-tempo situations and may reduce chafing if one's thighs tend to rub mid-run, but it also tends to hold more heat and moisture on longer runs than the classic brief style. At the end of the day, the choice between the two options is personal and depends heavily on your body's needs, the climate, and the run length. Some shorts lack a liner and require you to provide your own preferred support.
The same pockets fully closed to hold the load in place. Credit: Matthew Richardson
Pockets
Pockets may or may not be among your top priorities. This heavily depends on your discipline or running style. Gym or treadmill runners often don't need pockets, while trail runners or long-distance road runners may want several pockets to carry essentials like nutrition, a phone, or keys. Holding large or bulky items is a bit much for lightweight running shorts. For these items, we recommend adding a belt or vest.
We considered not only the number of pockets but also their overall function, capacity, and versatility. A pocket's functionality refers to the level of bounce items experience in a given pocket, how accessible it is during a run, and whether its closure (if there is one) works smoothly. Capacity refers to how much the pocket holds, while versatility refers to how a pocket can be used during and outside of running. For example, shorts with hand pockets are valued for their usefulness during everyday outings, thereby increasing their versatility.
The Patagonia Strider Pro pockets loaded with gels, a phone, and a bar. Credit: Matthew Richardson
The most important pocket attribute is how it sits on the body during a run and whether or not it bounces when in use. Pockets located on the hips are typically best, although the design and material influence the final results. Stretchy, elasticized materials typically hold items more snugly than non-elastic fabrics. Placement also matters, as some locations minimize bounce more than others. We also considered potential use-case scenarios for each pair of shorts and their pockets. For example, some shorts are geared more towards tempo runs, where storage is less of a concern.
It is not uncommon to find a pocket on the back just under or incorporated into the waistband. This location is known for reducing bounce, so the rear back pocket is often used for phone storage or for stashing larger, heavier items. Such pockets are also commonly zippered to protect the device, while side pockets are often secured using elasticity alone, which provides easy access on the go but less security. In recent years, inconsistently sized rear phone pockets have become a point of contention among runners. Given how crucial phones have become, it can be a major inconvenience when smaller pockets fail to fit the newest devices or when a zip closure makes it a pain to access a phone mid-run. Larger pockets may fit the device better, but the added size can lead to increased bounce, which can become uncomfortable when moving. We find this commonly in hip pockets on large shorts.
A Note on Pocket Testing: Phone-fit testing utilized an iPhone 17 Pro, which measures 5.91 by 2.83 by 0.34 inches.
A phone secured in the side zip pocket of the Baleaf Running Shorts. Credit: Matthew Richardson
Best and Worst Pockets
Our favorite for pockets was the Patagonia Strider Pro, with five pockets that rival a running belt for capacity. Four stretch envelope pockets lie flat when empty and expand generously for gels, gloves, or a lightweight jacket, while the back zipper pocket secures a phone with a built-in key loop. The REI Swiftland Shorts take a different but equally thoughtful approach: a back zipper for a phone, two waistband stash pockets sized for gels, and a key loop. The Baleaf Running Athletic Shorts and NorthYard Workout Running Shorts rate well here too, proving that three zippered pockets at a budget price can match or beat more expensive designs for sheer security.
Pockets are where the Patagonia Trailfarer falls behind, with only a single back snap pocket and no side pockets at all. The Brooks Dash Shorts also disappoints, with open-top hand pockets and a tiny liner key pocket that cannot securely hold a phone. The Vuori Kore Short comes in below the leaders, with three pockets but no zipper closures, leaving items vulnerable to shifting or falling out during faster efforts.
Breathability and Moisture Control
Breathability and moisture control are important attributes of any running gear, especially when you start to sweat. Manufacturers apply several different strategies to address these concerns. One of the most popular is the incorporation of mesh fabrics into designs. Mesh can be found in a variety of locations: built into waistbands, added as panels along the legs or at the back, used for pockets, or used to create liners. Mesh allows air to flow more freely in and out of the fabric, helping keep skin cool and dry.
High-intensity runs or running in hot climates can make sweating a major problem. A good pair of shorts should wick moisture away from the skin's surface, aiding evaporative cooling and reducing the risk of irritation. However, if the shorts absorb too much sweat, they can become weighted down and saturated, making runs less comfortable and potentially creating unsightly wet patches. While it is hard to avoid saturation after prolonged efforts, selecting products made of high-quality, moisture-wicking fabrics can help limit moisture buildup.
We assessed each short's drying performance through hands-on experience during extended runs under varying conditions, as well as through objective testing. During our test runs, we tracked which shorts shed moisture quickly and which stayed saturated, noting how sweat built up gradually and whether it dissipated at a similar pace. We also conducted an objective blow-dryer test: we soaked each pair of shorts in water and simulated air-drying on the body during a run, using a blow dryer on a high-flow, cold-temperature setting directed at a single leg of the shorts. We recorded the time between when the blow dryer was turned on and the moment a palm-sized dry patch appeared on the shorts. Together, these assessments help answer how well the shorts will perform on long runs with heavy sweat and in wet conditions.
Logging warm miles in the Patagonia Trailfarer. Credit: Matthew Richardson
The top performers for breathability and moisture control were the Patagonia Strider Pro, Janji AFO Middle, and Patagonia Trailfarer. The Strider Pro and Trailfarer benefit from Patagonia's DWR-treated stretch weave that causes water to bead rather than absorb, combined with ultralight construction that leaves minimal fabric to saturate. The Janji's AFO woven fabric is specifically engineered for fast drying and high breathability, with a perforated waistband that pushes even more air across the skin. The REI Swiftland Shorts are right there with them, with an O2Grid nylon and spandex blend that offers some of the most breathable fabric feel in the group, augmented by outseam vents that keep air flowing even during high-output efforts.
Nearer the bottom were the Vuori Kore Short and the NorthYard Workout Running Shorts. The Vuori's 10% elastane blend absorbs water rather than repelling it, and at 6.50 ounces, it is among the heaviest and slowest-drying shorts we tested. The NorthYard's denser polyester-spandex fabric at 6.20 ounces showed similar limitations, holding moisture rather than shedding it efficiently.
Light passes through the open O2Grid weave of the REI Swiftland Shorts, among the most breathable in our testing. Credit: Matthew Richardson
Versatility
While we didn't officially test or score versatility, it's worth considering when choosing shorts, as everyone comes to the running world with different goals and objectives. Which pair is right for you depends on critical factors like your body type, running goals, and whether you want your running shorts to be suitable for other activities like hiking, hitting the gym, or running errands. Depending on how versatile a single pair of shorts can be, it might influence how often you can wear them and what budget seems appropriate. A longer pair with more pockets could be the perfect choice for weekend trips to the home improvement store after a short morning run, while a shorter pair with no pockets, built for races, might leave you feeling exposed and looking out of place while perusing paint samples. If you only plan to wear your running shorts for running, you might not care about their overall versatility. But if you want a pair that is equally at home on the run, at the gym, or grabbing some groceries, we think it deserves thoughtful consideration.
Shorts with longer inseam options, seven inches or above, tend to transition more easily between different environments. Hand pockets also play a role in assessed versatility, as this feature is less well-suited for running but very useful for holding a wallet or phone when used in other settings. While some side hip pockets hold larger items well while running, hand pockets are better suited for everyday shorts.
The Vuori Kore Short transitions easily to casual wear. Credit: Matthew Richardson
The most versatile in the group include the Vuori Kore Short, the REI Active Pursuits Shorts, and the Brooks Dash 2-in-1 Shorts. The Kore's soft elastane-rich fabric, 7-inch inseam, and classic-fit silhouette transition seamlessly from the gym to brunch without drawing a second glance. The Active Pursuits pair a stretchy, unlined design with snap-closure hand pockets and a 7-inch inseam that works for hiking, errands, and casual wear just as well as for running. The Dash 2-in-1 offers enough style polish to wear beyond the trail, and its hand pockets add post-run utility.
The least versatile options are the Patagonia Strider Pro and the Janji AFO Middle. Both are excellent running shorts built with running as the singular focus. Their shorter 5-inch inseams, brief liners, and envelope or minimal pocket designs signal performance rather than everyday style. They are outstanding on the trail or road, but you might feel underdressed picking up groceries in them.
The versatile REI Active Pursuits Shorts on the trail. Credit: Matthew Richardson
How to Choose the Best Running Shorts
Several things separate a general-use athletic short from an excellent running short. Chief among these is a built-in breathable and supportive liner. Another is a selection of well-placed, well-designed pockets. While comfort is paramount in any clothing purchase, runners have specific concerns. Before deciding, consider which elements and features can help you achieve your goals.
On the trail in the Janji AFO Middle. Credit: Matthew Richardson
What Inseam Length is Right for You?
Running shorts' inseams are typically shorter than those of general-use shorts to enhance breathability and mobility. That said, the inseam length is mostly a matter of preference and running goals. For high-pace road runs, shorter inseams provide enhanced breathability and a more natural stride. It is common to see 3-inch or 5-inch inseams as the preferred choices on race day. Alternatively, trail runs typically require longer inseams to better protect the legs from the elements when traversing varied terrain. In these cases, a 7- or 8-inch inseam may be the right balance. Some runners may choose 2-in-1 or compression-tight styles for such conditions. Many of the shorts we tested come in different inseam lengths, so if you find a pair you love, you can buy it in different lengths for different types of running.
The 7-inch inseam on the Baleaf Running Shorts. Credit: Matthew Richardson
Is a Liner Important?
Liners are designed to replace athletic underwear and provide support without an extra garment. They come in a variety of styles and constructions, including both brief and boxer-style liners. Newer runners may be put off by the initial feel of lined running shorts, but they are an important design feature, providing streamlined support and chafing control. The way a liner is stitched and the material chosen for its construction also play a large role in comfort during use. Liner fabrics are typically synthetic blends with unique ratios of polyester, spandex/elastane, and nylon. The stitching on every liner is also variable, available in rounded, flat, or unfinished designs. There are some unlined shorts, though they are often worn with compression shorts or tights underneath to achieve the same effect.
The boxer brief liner of the Vuori Kore Short. Credit: Matthew Richardson
Waistband Concerns
Waistband design and construction are among the most important factors to consider when purchasing a new pair of shorts. The chief function of a waistband, when paired with the liner, is to provide a snug, supportive fit while running. Often, a drawstring is also included to ensure a secure fit around the hips and stability from the top down. It is possible to find shorts without drawstrings, but they often have a more form-fitting waistband to compensate for the lack of adjustment. Wider waistbands typically fit snugly but can increase moisture capture. Saturated waistbands may increase chafing or create an unpleasant sticking experience for some.
The waistband and drawcord on the Janji AFO Middle. Credit: Matthew Richardson
What Pockets Do I Need?
While some shorts prioritize light, fast performance over all else, other designs cater to runners who seek storage in some form. No matter the length of the run, it is not uncommon to carry a few basics (key, credit card, ID, energy gels, or phone). Most shorts include at least one pocket, even if that is just a keyhole, while others include several pockets for maximum storage. Rear pockets are often zipped and sized to hold a phone. However, smartphones grow larger every year, and not all phones will fit, nor are they always comfortable if they do. Side hip pockets are commonly included to hold smaller items. No matter the size or location, the best pockets will hold the items you deem worthy securely against the body while preventing them from bouncing during a run.
A snap-closure hand pocket on the REI Active Pursuits Shorts. Credit: Matthew Richardson
What Material is Best?
The majority of running shorts are made from synthetic fabrics to minimize weight, reduce chafing, and increase breathability. It isn't uncommon to experience liner or waistband chafing, so the materials in these areas are of special interest to runners. Different material combinations deliver different performance traits. Spandex-heavy blends tend to be more stretchy but less breathable than other options. While nylon blends will be stretchier than polyester, they can still feel less stretchy than spandex. If you run in cooler climates or places with less humidity, or your runs are shorter, spandex could provide more support and comfort. If you run in hot or humid climates, a higher nylon or polyester content might provide the breathability you crave and make your running experience more comfortable.
The O2Grid fabric of the REI Swiftland Shorts. Credit: Matthew Richardson
Other Notable Running Shorts
The market is full of compelling running shorts that have probably made your shortlist. Below are some popular choices that didn't make the cut for testing, along with why.
Patagonia Multi Trails Shorts: While we love Patagonia and their impressive ethics, we chose the Strider Pro and Trailfarer over the Multi Trails because they both seem to have a higher user satisfaction rate. However, if you favor a boxer/brief liner, a longer inseam (6-8") with side pockets, it could be a good fit for you.
Rabbit FKT Shorts: While an intriguing option that might be on someone's short list, the general word on the street indicates they aren't as popular as they once were, and many runners disliked them after buying.
On the trail in the Patagonia Trailfarer. Credit: Matthew Richardson
Conclusion
Whether you are new to running or you've banked impressive miles, the right pair of shorts can make running more enjoyable. Finding the right style, fit, and features for your goals and budget can get you on the road and make being there something you look forward to.
